This bill amends the current law regarding special education funding for school districts by eliminating the requirement for catastrophic special education funds to be prorated among districts. Instead, it mandates that disbursements for special education must be at least 80 percent of a district's entitlement for catastrophic aid costs in the fiscal year. The bill also clarifies that if the appropriated amount for special education aid is insufficient, the funds will still be distributed proportionally based on entitlement, ensuring that districts receive a minimum of 80 percent of their entitled amount.

Additionally, the bill modifies the funding mechanism for special education aid by appropriating necessary funds from the education trust fund, allowing the governor to draw warrants to fulfill the state's obligations regardless of the fund's balance. If the balance falls below zero after such warrants are issued, the state comptroller is required to transfer sufficient funds from the general fund to cover the deficit. This change aims to provide more reliable funding for special education programs while ensuring that districts are not left without necessary financial support. The act is set to take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 186-C:18
As Amended by the House: 186-C:18
HB773 text: 186-C:18